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We know that people with ADHD often approach work differently than might a neurotypical person. And while ADHD can manifest in traits like impulsivity and being easily distracted, the condition is also associated with many desirable qualities—including, it seems, incredible creativity. That’s the upshot of new research recently presented at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) Congress in Amsterdam. Researchers conducted a pair of studies involving 750 participants, finding that those with ADHD may experience more frequent episodes of mind-wandering, and that that, in turn, could lead to greater creative thinking abilities. “Previous research pointed to mind-wandering as a possible factor linking ADHD and creativity, but until now no study has directly examined this connection,” one of the investigators, Han Fang, said in a statement. “We found that people with more ADHD traits, such as lack of attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity scored higher on creative achievements in both studies,” Fang said. There are two different kinds of mind-wandering—spontaneous and deliberate. Those who deliberately allowed their minds to wander showcased greater creativity, Fang said. “This suggests that mind-wandering may be an underlying factor connecting ADHD and creativity,” he added. The many sides of ADHD The findings add to other evidence pointing to some of the more beneficial seeming traits of ADHD, including that certain ADHD traits like impulsivity or a tendency to “hyperfocus” can lead to greater creativity. For example, a 2021 study found that people with a common form of ADHD known as combined type ADHD were more creative than people with other forms of the condition. What those findings suggested was that higher degrees of ADHD symptoms were associated with greater creativity. Experts say the latest findings have the potential to help transform ADHD treatment, but more research is needed to confirm the results. “For treatment, ADHD-tailored mindfulness-based interventions that seek to decrease spontaneous mind-wandering or transform it into more deliberate forms may reduce functional impairments and enhance treatment outcomes,” Fang said. View the full article

US hardliners want a tough stance but the US president is taking a more nuanced approach to Beijing View the full article

After a number of big announcements this week, it’s hip to be Square. Square announced several upgrades and features to its platform this week, including an expansion of tools for restaurant owners and operators, new intelligence capabilities under its Square AI suite, the unveiling of Square Bitcoin, allowing platform users to conduct transactions in Bitcoin. As a cherry on top, Cash App, a sister company to Square under its parent firm, Block, also announced Neighborhoods, a feature that connects customers with local businesses, creating local networks in which customers can place orders and accumulate rewards points to spend with nearby businesses, and helps those businesses create followings and marketing channels all within Cash App itself. Square’s announcements, made by company leaders at an event in New York City on Wednesday, made one thing fairly clear: Square has its sights set on being much more than a two-dimensional point-of-sale vendor. It wants to provide small businesses with an entire suite of technology and tools that can help those small businesses compete with much larger companies with vast resources, especially in the food and beverage space. Square’s focus on food and beverage Lindsey Irvine, Square’s Chief Marketing Officer, tells Fast Company that Square’s focus on the food and beverage industry, particularly as it relates to these recent announcements, is founded in the fact that restaurants—be they diners, coffee shops, or full-service sit-down steakhouses—are the “lifeblood” of many communities. “One thing we looked at from the data standpoint, and a unique differentiator for Square, is that we’re the only solution that operates in every type of business in a given neighborhood,” she says. “And if you dig in, restaurants have the most vibrancy.” That is, restaurants tend to see more foot traffic and conduct more transactions than most other types of businesses. So, there’s a lot of data to be analyzed, and a lot of potential problems for business owners to solve. Accordingly, “We want to plant a flag and build a platform for restaurants.” Restaurants, Irvine says, are also fairly complicated to run, so creating a platform with restaurants in mind could be adopted by other business types with relative ease, which also made it an easy place for Square to start when developing its new tools and features. While Square is rolling out several new tools, Irvine says she thinks that its Order Guide, a tool that leverages AI to help restaurant owners dig into their revenue and costs and look for alternative suppliers, among other things, is likely the most exciting. “I think, on a practical level, the Order Guide and the potential cost savings are big,” she says. “This is what restaurant owners talk about every day: Increasing prices. The only option they have to find savings is to go through their list, vendor by vendor. There was no solution,” she adds. “But we’ve done that for them.” At the event on Wednesday, restaurant owners on-hand—which included Henry Laporte, the co-owner of the three-month-old French Dip restaurant Salt Hank’s, and Jake Dell, the fifth-generation owner of Katz’s Deli, a 137-year-old New York City institution—shared their enthusiasm about the new tools, including the Order Guide. “That could be big for us,” Laporte said on stage during a panel discussion about the new tools. “The price of beef has gone up 25% over the past month,” he added, saying that it would be big if tools like Order Guide could help him look for alternative suppliers. Squaring up to what’s ahead Looking ahead, Irvine says that Square plans to hold more events like the one in New York—which was the second “Releases” event the company has ever held. She envisions there being two per year, one on each U.S. coast, and perhaps even international events. The goal, she says, is to make Square’s presence felt nationwide, especially on a neighborhood level, where some of Square’s competitors may feel more distant. When her team is on the ground, speaking with business owners, “there’s a wild amount of pent-up demand” for some of the features that Square is rolling out, Irvine says. “People trust us, our POS is their lifeblood, and at the end of the day, we’re finding ways to help them grow. We’re showing up authentically.” While that doesn’t necessarily mean that every mom-and-pop sandwich shop is going to dive head-first into the Bitcoin ecosystem—and Square Bitcoin is designed for, and only for, Bitcoin transactions, not other types of cryptocurrency—having the option to accept it is not something they can get through other broad platforms. To finish off the event, Square CEO Jack Dorsey, as a part of a fireside chat with Randy Garutti, the former CEO of Shake Shack and current Board member for Block, said that Block itself is, in a way, coming full-circle back to its roots as it renews its focus on helping small businesses generate on-the-ground insights and beef up their point-of-sale platforms. Square’s announcements, he says, help position Square and Block as a go-to business partner for what’s to come. “We want to be a company that’s ten steps ahead of a customer’s expectation and desire,” Dorsey said. “I think we’re now, finally, getting back to that, which is how we started the company.” But Dorsey reiterates that even Square’s early plans and goals underwent big revisions as he and others learned more about what its customer actually needed, rather than what they wanted to create for them. That, again, has resulted in some of the new feature and tool rollouts. “There was no grand vision” early on, Dorsey said. “You have to feel it. You have to discover. There’s no true invention,” he added. Being able to adapt, Dorsey said, is what’s given Square the ability to come as far as it has. “Those are the things that really break the company’s potential open. They’re unexpected,” he said. “Those unexpected things are what gives you lasting power.” View the full article

To effectively engage your audience in business storytelling, you need to master ten fundamental skills. Start with comprehending who your audience is, then craft compelling narratives that resonate with them. Utilize visual aids to elevate your message and refine your verbal and non-verbal communication techniques. Incorporating data storytelling can further strengthen your points. By focusing on structured delivery and continuous refinement, you can improve your storytelling impact. What’s the next step in this process? Key Takeaways Conduct audience analysis to tailor narratives that resonate and engage effectively with diverse demographics and preferences. Utilize visual aids to enhance storytelling, making complex information clearer and improving audience retention. Master verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to convey emotions and establish trust through tone, body language, and gestures. Incorporate data storytelling techniques to transform statistics into relatable narratives, guiding decision-making and understanding. Embrace feedback and iterative development to refine storytelling skills and create compelling narratives that motivate action. Understanding Your Audience Comprehending your audience is vital for effective business storytelling, as it allows you to shape your narrative to align with their interests and values. Start by conducting audience analysis to identify key demographics and preferences. This knowledge helps you create stories that resonate on a personal level. Engage with your audience through questions and feedback, which can provide valuable insights into their perspectives. This interaction boosts the relevance and impact of your story. Utilize empathy in your storytelling to recognize and address their needs and emotions, cultivating deeper connections. Finally, adjust your storytelling techniques based on audience feedback. This approach is fundamental in storytelling training for leaders and can greatly improve engagement in your business storytelling training. Crafting a Compelling Narrative Crafting a compelling narrative is essential for capturing your audience’s attention and ensuring your message resonates. Start by comprehending their needs, tailoring your story format to engage them effectively. A well-structured narrative includes a clear beginning, middle, and end, which maintains clarity and focus. Use vivid imagery and emotional language to improve engagement, making your message more memorable. Incorporate real-life examples and relatable characters to nurture empathy, strengthening the connection between you and your audience. Utilizing Visual Aids Effectively When you want to improve your storytelling, utilizing visual aids effectively can make a significant difference. Visuals augment your narrative by providing a clear representation of key concepts, making information easier to understand and remember. Since 65% of the population are visual learners, using infographics and charts can simplify complex data and highlight trends, boosting retention and engagement. High-quality images and videos evoke emotions, creating a stronger connection with your audience. Properly designed visual aids maintain focus and can make your presentation 43% more persuasive. To maximize impact, confirm your visuals are relevant and well-integrated into your story, as this will reinforce your message and improve the overall effectiveness of your storytelling. Mastering Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication Becoming proficient in verbal and non-verbal communication is essential for effective business storytelling. You should pay attention to your tone variance, as it can greatly influence how your message is perceived, while being mindful of your body language, which can reinforce your narrative. Importance of Tone Variance Effective communication in business storytelling hinges on the importance of tone variance, which plays a significant role in how your message is received. To master tone variance, focus on the following elements: Vocal Adjustments: Use pitch, volume, and pace to convey emotions, emphasizing key points to improve engagement. Emotional Impact: Be mindful of your tone; a calm tone builds trust, whereas an enthusiastic one can inspire action. Audience Perception: Keep in mind that 38% of communication effectiveness comes from tone, making it essential to adjust your delivery to resonate with your audience. Body Language Significance Comprehending body language is crucial for successful storytelling, as it can greatly improve your message and connect with your audience. Effective body language reinforces your spoken words and conveys confidence; studies indicate it accounts for 55% of communication impact. By mastering non-verbal cues like facial expressions and gestures, you can improve audience engagement and retention, since about 93% of communication effectiveness relies on non-verbal signals. Practicing open body language, including maintaining eye contact and using expressive hand movements, nurtures trust and rapport. Furthermore, being mindful of your posture influences how your message is received, as strong posture projects authority. Integrating vocal techniques with body language creates a more dynamic storytelling experience, improving emotional resonance with your audience. Incorporating Data Storytelling Techniques Incorporating data storytelling techniques is crucial for making complex information accessible and engaging. You can improve your presentations by using effective data visualization, which helps clarify your points and boosts retention. Furthermore, crafting compelling narratives around your data allows you to connect with your audience, ensuring they grasp the insights and are more likely to act on them. Importance of Data Visualization While you might’ve a wealth of data at your disposal, effectively communicating that information often hinges on how you present it. Data visualization transforms complex data into clear visuals, making it easier for your audience to grasp key insights quickly. To improve your presentations, consider these techniques: Use visual metaphors: They help relate complex data to familiar concepts, making your statistics more impactful. Incorporate storytelling: A narrative structure guides viewers through the data, improving comprehension and retention. Emphasize trends: Highlighting patterns in your visuals can lead to better decision-making, as studies show that visuals increase information retention by up to 65%. Crafting Compelling Data Narratives Crafting compelling data narratives requires a thoughtful approach that blends data with storytelling techniques. Start by structuring your narrative clearly; this helps your audience follow along easily. Incorporate visual elements like charts and graphs to improve comprehension as you ensure they highlight your key insights. Combine quantitative data with qualitative storytelling to make statistics relatable and actionable for diverse audiences. Remember, studies show that people are 23 times more likely to remember information presented in story form rather than raw data. Engaging Audiences With Insights Engaging your audience with insights is all about transforming complex data into narratives that resonate and stick. To effectively communicate your data, consider these techniques: Use Visuals: Incorporate charts and graphs to simplify information, making key insights easier to grasp. Provide Context: Make certain your data is relevant to your audience’s needs, framing your insights in a way that connects with their experiences. Evoke Emotion: Pair data with stories that spark feelings, as emotional connections improve retention and motivate action. Enhancing Emotional Engagement How can you improve emotional engagement in your storytelling? Start by using visceral storytelling techniques, like vivid imagery and relatable characters, to evoke emotions that nurture audience empathy. When you create a narrative that resonates on a personal level, you increase retention rates appreciably, sometimes by up to 65%. Incorporating personal anecdotes into your stories adds authenticity, allowing listeners to forge a deeper connection with your message. Research shows that stories triggering emotional responses can amplify persuasion effectiveness by 23%. By comprehending the psychological impact of emotions, you can craft narratives that not merely inform but additionally inspire action, aligning with your audience’s values and motivations, which is vital for effective communication in any business context. Structuring Your Story for Impact A well-structured story can greatly improve your audience’s engagement and retention. To create impactful narratives, focus on these key elements: Clear Structure: Use a beginning, middle, and end to guide your audience through the story, ensuring they stay engaged. 3-Act Structure: Introduce characters and conflicts in Act 1, develop the story with rising action in Act 2, and resolve conflicts in Act 3. This framework provides clarity and momentum. Story Brief: Utilize a concise overview that highlights your main message, the audience’s needs, and your desired outcome. This keeps your story focused. Practicing Storytelling Delivery Practicing storytelling delivery is important for perfecting the art of connection with your audience. By improving your verbal, visceral, visual, and vocal skills, you become more engaging. Active participation during training sessions helps refine your delivery techniques, allowing you to boost your storytelling impact. Focus on your tone and style, as these elements greatly influence how your audience perceives your message and responds emotionally. Engaging in low-risk storytelling prototypes enables you to iterate on your narratives based on audience reactions. This process encourages continuous improvement. Structured practice sessions are critical for building meaningful narratives that motivate action and resonate with diverse audiences, making them fundamental for effective business communication. Embrace these opportunities to improve your storytelling delivery. Receiving and Implementing Feedback Receiving feedback is essential for refining your storytelling skills, as it helps you understand what resonates with your audience. By embracing constructive criticism, you can engage in an iterative story development process that incorporates diverse perspectives. This approach not only addresses potential creative blocks but additionally improves the overall effectiveness of your narrative. Embracing Constructive Criticism Embracing constructive criticism is crucial in refining your storytelling skills, as it allows you to gather valuable insights from others. By actively seeking feedback, you improve your narratives and promote continuous improvement. Here are three key steps to effectively embrace constructive criticism: Request Specific Feedback: Ask peers or instructors for targeted insights on areas like clarity and engagement, making it easier to identify improvement opportunities. Reflect on the Feedback: Regularly review the feedback you receive, noting recurring themes or suggestions, which helps you recognize blind spots. Implement Changes: Be willing to adapt your storytelling techniques based on the feedback, leading to more compelling narratives that resonate with your audience. Iterative Story Development Process As you immerse yourself in the iterative story development process, comprehending how to use feedback effectively can greatly improve your storytelling. Start by prototyping your narrative using low-risk methods, such as sharing drafts with a small group. This approach allows you to gather constructive insights, enabling you to refine your story’s clarity and engagement. Embrace feedback as a crucial tool for identifying areas needing improvement, nurturing collaboration, and gaining diverse perspectives. Each iteration should include reflecting on previous versions, incorporating audience insights, and addressing any gaps. In the end, this process will lead to a well-crafted story that resonates with your target audience, motivating action and cultivating emotional connections. Keep iterating until you’ve achieved the desired impact. Continuously Refining Your Storytelling Skills To continuously refine your storytelling skills, it’s essential to understand your audience’s needs and adapt your narratives to resonate with them effectively. Here are three strategies to improve your storytelling proficiency: Practice Regularly: Share prototypes of your stories with peers and seek constructive feedback to identify areas for improvement. Utilize Frameworks: Apply storytelling techniques from industry experts to structure your narratives, boosting clarity and engagement. Reflect on Experiences: Analyze your past storytelling successes and challenges to derive insights that inform your future efforts. Additionally, consider participating in interactive workshops or courses focused on storytelling. These opportunities provide lifelong access to resources and continual reinforcement of the skills you acquire, ensuring your storytelling remains impactful and relevant. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Storytelling? The 5 C’s of storytelling are essential for crafting effective narratives. First, you need a strong Character, someone your audience can connect with. Next, introduce Conflict to create tension and interest. Then, provide Context to give background and setting. After that, reach the Climax, where the main conflict peaks and demands resolution. Finally, wrap it up with a Conclusion that offers closure and a meaningful takeaway for your audience. What Skills Are Required for Storytelling? To effectively tell a story, you need strong verbal communication skills to clearly express your ideas. You should likewise master visual elements, like images and infographics, to simplify complex data. Emotional intelligence helps you understand your audience’s needs, allowing you to connect with them. Structuring your narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end guarantees coherence. Finally, adapting your storytelling techniques for different contexts helps you engage and persuade your audience effectively. What Are the 4 P’s of Storytelling? The 4 P’s of storytelling are Purpose, People, Plot, and Process. The Purpose defines the central message of your story, guiding its direction. People include the characters whose motivations and relationships engage the audience. The Plot outlines the sequence of events, ensuring a clear and interesting structure. Finally, Process refers to the techniques you use, such as tone and style, which improve the story’s impact and make it memorable for your audience. How to Improve Business Storytelling? To improve your business storytelling, start by knowing your audience’s needs and interests. Structure your narrative with a clear introduction, conflict, and resolution. Use relatable examples and data to back up your points, making complex information easier to understand. Practice your delivery to elevate your style and engage listeners. Seek feedback from peers to refine your approach. Finally, keep your stories concise, focusing on key messages that resonate with your audience. Conclusion In summary, mastering business storytelling requires a blend of fundamental skills. By comprehending your audience, crafting effective narratives, and utilizing visual aids, you improve your message’s impact. Mastering both verbal and non-verbal communication guarantees clarity, whereas data storytelling techniques strengthen your arguments. Structuring your story, practicing delivery, and embracing feedback will refine your abilities. Finally, a commitment to continuous improvement will lead to more engaging and persuasive storytelling, motivating your audience to take action. Image Via Envato This article, "10 Essential Skills for Effective Business Storytelling Training" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

To effectively engage your audience in business storytelling, you need to master ten fundamental skills. Start with comprehending who your audience is, then craft compelling narratives that resonate with them. Utilize visual aids to elevate your message and refine your verbal and non-verbal communication techniques. Incorporating data storytelling can further strengthen your points. By focusing on structured delivery and continuous refinement, you can improve your storytelling impact. What’s the next step in this process? Key Takeaways Conduct audience analysis to tailor narratives that resonate and engage effectively with diverse demographics and preferences. Utilize visual aids to enhance storytelling, making complex information clearer and improving audience retention. Master verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to convey emotions and establish trust through tone, body language, and gestures. Incorporate data storytelling techniques to transform statistics into relatable narratives, guiding decision-making and understanding. Embrace feedback and iterative development to refine storytelling skills and create compelling narratives that motivate action. Understanding Your Audience Comprehending your audience is vital for effective business storytelling, as it allows you to shape your narrative to align with their interests and values. Start by conducting audience analysis to identify key demographics and preferences. This knowledge helps you create stories that resonate on a personal level. Engage with your audience through questions and feedback, which can provide valuable insights into their perspectives. This interaction boosts the relevance and impact of your story. Utilize empathy in your storytelling to recognize and address their needs and emotions, cultivating deeper connections. Finally, adjust your storytelling techniques based on audience feedback. This approach is fundamental in storytelling training for leaders and can greatly improve engagement in your business storytelling training. Crafting a Compelling Narrative Crafting a compelling narrative is essential for capturing your audience’s attention and ensuring your message resonates. Start by comprehending their needs, tailoring your story format to engage them effectively. A well-structured narrative includes a clear beginning, middle, and end, which maintains clarity and focus. Use vivid imagery and emotional language to improve engagement, making your message more memorable. Incorporate real-life examples and relatable characters to nurture empathy, strengthening the connection between you and your audience. Utilizing Visual Aids Effectively When you want to improve your storytelling, utilizing visual aids effectively can make a significant difference. Visuals augment your narrative by providing a clear representation of key concepts, making information easier to understand and remember. Since 65% of the population are visual learners, using infographics and charts can simplify complex data and highlight trends, boosting retention and engagement. High-quality images and videos evoke emotions, creating a stronger connection with your audience. Properly designed visual aids maintain focus and can make your presentation 43% more persuasive. To maximize impact, confirm your visuals are relevant and well-integrated into your story, as this will reinforce your message and improve the overall effectiveness of your storytelling. Mastering Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication Becoming proficient in verbal and non-verbal communication is essential for effective business storytelling. You should pay attention to your tone variance, as it can greatly influence how your message is perceived, while being mindful of your body language, which can reinforce your narrative. Importance of Tone Variance Effective communication in business storytelling hinges on the importance of tone variance, which plays a significant role in how your message is received. To master tone variance, focus on the following elements: Vocal Adjustments: Use pitch, volume, and pace to convey emotions, emphasizing key points to improve engagement. Emotional Impact: Be mindful of your tone; a calm tone builds trust, whereas an enthusiastic one can inspire action. Audience Perception: Keep in mind that 38% of communication effectiveness comes from tone, making it essential to adjust your delivery to resonate with your audience. Body Language Significance Comprehending body language is crucial for successful storytelling, as it can greatly improve your message and connect with your audience. Effective body language reinforces your spoken words and conveys confidence; studies indicate it accounts for 55% of communication impact. By mastering non-verbal cues like facial expressions and gestures, you can improve audience engagement and retention, since about 93% of communication effectiveness relies on non-verbal signals. Practicing open body language, including maintaining eye contact and using expressive hand movements, nurtures trust and rapport. Furthermore, being mindful of your posture influences how your message is received, as strong posture projects authority. Integrating vocal techniques with body language creates a more dynamic storytelling experience, improving emotional resonance with your audience. Incorporating Data Storytelling Techniques Incorporating data storytelling techniques is crucial for making complex information accessible and engaging. You can improve your presentations by using effective data visualization, which helps clarify your points and boosts retention. Furthermore, crafting compelling narratives around your data allows you to connect with your audience, ensuring they grasp the insights and are more likely to act on them. Importance of Data Visualization While you might’ve a wealth of data at your disposal, effectively communicating that information often hinges on how you present it. Data visualization transforms complex data into clear visuals, making it easier for your audience to grasp key insights quickly. To improve your presentations, consider these techniques: Use visual metaphors: They help relate complex data to familiar concepts, making your statistics more impactful. Incorporate storytelling: A narrative structure guides viewers through the data, improving comprehension and retention. Emphasize trends: Highlighting patterns in your visuals can lead to better decision-making, as studies show that visuals increase information retention by up to 65%. Crafting Compelling Data Narratives Crafting compelling data narratives requires a thoughtful approach that blends data with storytelling techniques. Start by structuring your narrative clearly; this helps your audience follow along easily. Incorporate visual elements like charts and graphs to improve comprehension as you ensure they highlight your key insights. Combine quantitative data with qualitative storytelling to make statistics relatable and actionable for diverse audiences. Remember, studies show that people are 23 times more likely to remember information presented in story form rather than raw data. Engaging Audiences With Insights Engaging your audience with insights is all about transforming complex data into narratives that resonate and stick. To effectively communicate your data, consider these techniques: Use Visuals: Incorporate charts and graphs to simplify information, making key insights easier to grasp. Provide Context: Make certain your data is relevant to your audience’s needs, framing your insights in a way that connects with their experiences. Evoke Emotion: Pair data with stories that spark feelings, as emotional connections improve retention and motivate action. Enhancing Emotional Engagement How can you improve emotional engagement in your storytelling? Start by using visceral storytelling techniques, like vivid imagery and relatable characters, to evoke emotions that nurture audience empathy. When you create a narrative that resonates on a personal level, you increase retention rates appreciably, sometimes by up to 65%. Incorporating personal anecdotes into your stories adds authenticity, allowing listeners to forge a deeper connection with your message. Research shows that stories triggering emotional responses can amplify persuasion effectiveness by 23%. By comprehending the psychological impact of emotions, you can craft narratives that not merely inform but additionally inspire action, aligning with your audience’s values and motivations, which is vital for effective communication in any business context. Structuring Your Story for Impact A well-structured story can greatly improve your audience’s engagement and retention. To create impactful narratives, focus on these key elements: Clear Structure: Use a beginning, middle, and end to guide your audience through the story, ensuring they stay engaged. 3-Act Structure: Introduce characters and conflicts in Act 1, develop the story with rising action in Act 2, and resolve conflicts in Act 3. This framework provides clarity and momentum. Story Brief: Utilize a concise overview that highlights your main message, the audience’s needs, and your desired outcome. This keeps your story focused. Practicing Storytelling Delivery Practicing storytelling delivery is important for perfecting the art of connection with your audience. By improving your verbal, visceral, visual, and vocal skills, you become more engaging. Active participation during training sessions helps refine your delivery techniques, allowing you to boost your storytelling impact. Focus on your tone and style, as these elements greatly influence how your audience perceives your message and responds emotionally. Engaging in low-risk storytelling prototypes enables you to iterate on your narratives based on audience reactions. This process encourages continuous improvement. Structured practice sessions are critical for building meaningful narratives that motivate action and resonate with diverse audiences, making them fundamental for effective business communication. Embrace these opportunities to improve your storytelling delivery. Receiving and Implementing Feedback Receiving feedback is essential for refining your storytelling skills, as it helps you understand what resonates with your audience. By embracing constructive criticism, you can engage in an iterative story development process that incorporates diverse perspectives. This approach not only addresses potential creative blocks but additionally improves the overall effectiveness of your narrative. Embracing Constructive Criticism Embracing constructive criticism is crucial in refining your storytelling skills, as it allows you to gather valuable insights from others. By actively seeking feedback, you improve your narratives and promote continuous improvement. Here are three key steps to effectively embrace constructive criticism: Request Specific Feedback: Ask peers or instructors for targeted insights on areas like clarity and engagement, making it easier to identify improvement opportunities. Reflect on the Feedback: Regularly review the feedback you receive, noting recurring themes or suggestions, which helps you recognize blind spots. Implement Changes: Be willing to adapt your storytelling techniques based on the feedback, leading to more compelling narratives that resonate with your audience. Iterative Story Development Process As you immerse yourself in the iterative story development process, comprehending how to use feedback effectively can greatly improve your storytelling. Start by prototyping your narrative using low-risk methods, such as sharing drafts with a small group. This approach allows you to gather constructive insights, enabling you to refine your story’s clarity and engagement. Embrace feedback as a crucial tool for identifying areas needing improvement, nurturing collaboration, and gaining diverse perspectives. Each iteration should include reflecting on previous versions, incorporating audience insights, and addressing any gaps. In the end, this process will lead to a well-crafted story that resonates with your target audience, motivating action and cultivating emotional connections. Keep iterating until you’ve achieved the desired impact. Continuously Refining Your Storytelling Skills To continuously refine your storytelling skills, it’s essential to understand your audience’s needs and adapt your narratives to resonate with them effectively. Here are three strategies to improve your storytelling proficiency: Practice Regularly: Share prototypes of your stories with peers and seek constructive feedback to identify areas for improvement. Utilize Frameworks: Apply storytelling techniques from industry experts to structure your narratives, boosting clarity and engagement. Reflect on Experiences: Analyze your past storytelling successes and challenges to derive insights that inform your future efforts. Additionally, consider participating in interactive workshops or courses focused on storytelling. These opportunities provide lifelong access to resources and continual reinforcement of the skills you acquire, ensuring your storytelling remains impactful and relevant. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Storytelling? The 5 C’s of storytelling are essential for crafting effective narratives. First, you need a strong Character, someone your audience can connect with. Next, introduce Conflict to create tension and interest. Then, provide Context to give background and setting. After that, reach the Climax, where the main conflict peaks and demands resolution. Finally, wrap it up with a Conclusion that offers closure and a meaningful takeaway for your audience. What Skills Are Required for Storytelling? To effectively tell a story, you need strong verbal communication skills to clearly express your ideas. You should likewise master visual elements, like images and infographics, to simplify complex data. Emotional intelligence helps you understand your audience’s needs, allowing you to connect with them. Structuring your narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end guarantees coherence. Finally, adapting your storytelling techniques for different contexts helps you engage and persuade your audience effectively. What Are the 4 P’s of Storytelling? The 4 P’s of storytelling are Purpose, People, Plot, and Process. The Purpose defines the central message of your story, guiding its direction. People include the characters whose motivations and relationships engage the audience. The Plot outlines the sequence of events, ensuring a clear and interesting structure. Finally, Process refers to the techniques you use, such as tone and style, which improve the story’s impact and make it memorable for your audience. How to Improve Business Storytelling? To improve your business storytelling, start by knowing your audience’s needs and interests. Structure your narrative with a clear introduction, conflict, and resolution. Use relatable examples and data to back up your points, making complex information easier to understand. Practice your delivery to elevate your style and engage listeners. Seek feedback from peers to refine your approach. Finally, keep your stories concise, focusing on key messages that resonate with your audience. Conclusion In summary, mastering business storytelling requires a blend of fundamental skills. By comprehending your audience, crafting effective narratives, and utilizing visual aids, you improve your message’s impact. Mastering both verbal and non-verbal communication guarantees clarity, whereas data storytelling techniques strengthen your arguments. Structuring your story, practicing delivery, and embracing feedback will refine your abilities. Finally, a commitment to continuous improvement will lead to more engaging and persuasive storytelling, motivating your audience to take action. Image Via Envato This article, "10 Essential Skills for Effective Business Storytelling Training" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Connecting with Gen Z is crucial for brands, especially as teens and twenty-somethings gain spending power and influence. But doing so can be a bit of an art. That’s why a new crop of companies are offering “translation” services for brands that want to speak Gen Z’s language and, as they say, get “locked in.” While many Gen Z translation businesses are still in their infancy, the Wall Street Journal reported that it already represents a multi-million-dollar industry. Some analysts estimate that Gen Z’s spending power is set to grow to $12.6 trillion by 2030, up from $9.8 trillion in 2024, according to the Journal. At the same time, Gen Z is far more digitally native than their predecessors, meaning they are far more used to getting information, shopping, and managing their lives online. They also seem extremely driven to make choices according to their values. According to a Lightspeed Commerce report, released earlier this year, 96% of Gen Z says they shop according to their values. Gen Z translators for brands Marketing agency NightyEight—named after 1998, the first birth year for members of this generational group—strategizes around the lives of real Gen Zers. The company uses insights from its Gen Z community, which it calls the “Koi Pond,” to figure out the best ways for brands to appeal to the generation. According to the company, NightyEight isn’t “just targeting Gen Z,” but “building the future of marketing with them.” According to Edelman, a company that formed in 2022 and has similar aims to NightyEight, brands need to think more strategically than ever to connect with Gen Z, because for this group, trends evolve very, very quickly. In a recent report titled “The Great Divide,” Edelman noted that “Gen Z is coming of age in a world that feels like it is simultaneously breaking apart and speeding up. Our society is a high-pressure environment, riddled with fear and uncertainty,” something that Gen Z is “hyperaware” of. “As a result, Zers have high hopes for brands. They are open to stronger two-way relationships, but they will also impose higher penalties when expectations are not met,” Edelman wrote. Values drive Gen Z choices Those insights are essential for brands that may not understand what Gen Z values, but should, analysts said. “A hallmark of Gen Z is coming to age in a hyper-connected world. In this world, every follow, like, repost, and even purchase is a direct reflection of a person’s identity and values,” Lightspeed CEO Dax Dasilva previously told Fast Company. “Through this connected world, there is a never-ending exposure to global issues, where activism, accountability, and ‘cancel culture’ move at the speed of light.” Perhaps fortunately for the brands that need most help relating to Gen Z, the generation seems extremely willing to speak up about what’s important to them. According to Celine Chai, one of the Gen Z founders of NightyEight, the generation is overtly interested in offering their insights. “People write paragraphs,” Chai told the Journal, referring to surveys of Gen Z. “I don’t think people try as hard in school.” View the full article

Militant group battles rivals and punishes suspected collaborators hours after agreeing ceasefire View the full article

Family members of dead celebrities including Robin Willians and George Carlin are calling foul over AI-generated videos of their loved ones appearing on OpenAI’s new app, Sora. OpenAI’s new video generation app is just a few weeks old, but it rapidly rocketed to the top of the U.S. Apple App Store within days of its release. And perhaps as rapidly, experts and creators raised copyright concerns around Sora, as the app appeared to let users create content of well-known cartoon characters and deepfakes of public figures. OpenAI has since curbed those kinds of videos, but The Washington Post and other outlets have reported that family members of dead celebrities don’t think enough is being done to protect their loved ones’ likeness. When OpenAI launched Sora, it said videos of “historical figures” would not be limited in the same way as deep fakes of living public figures. What the families are saying about Sora On Tuesday, Robin Willians’ daughter, Zelda, took to Instagram to share a plea with followers. “Please, just stop sending me AI videos of Dad,” she wrote. “If you’ve got any decency, just stop doing this to him and to me, to everyone even, full stop. It’s dumb, it’s a waste of time and energy, and believe me, it’s NOT what he’d want.” The late comedian George Carlin’s daughter, Kelly, expressed a similar view. She took to BlueSky to share her experience, writing that videos using her father’s likeness are both “overwhelming, and depressing.” Assassinated civil rights leader Malcolm X’s daughter told the Post that “it is deeply disrespectful and hurtful to see my father’s image used in such a cavalier and insensitive manner when he dedicated his life to truth.” OpenAI told the Post and other outlets that it would work with the families of “recently deceased” public figures to have their loved ones’ likeness removed from the app. “For public figures who are recently deceased, authorized representatives or owners of their estate can request that their likeness not be used in Sora cameos,” the company said. It remains unclear whether OpenAI will limit the use of more historical dead celebrities and public figures: Some videos on the app feature older deceased figures, including Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and Martin Luther King. Jr. Broader privacy, copyright concerns remain Experts are wary about the implications of Sora for creators and for privacy. “It’s as if deepfakes got a publicist and a distribution deal,” Daisy Soderberg-Rivkin, a former trust and safety manager at TikTok, told NPR. “It’s an amplification of something that has been scary for a while, but now it has a whole new platform.” The head of the Motion Picture Association said in a statement that OpenAI must take responsibility to prevent copyright infringement, and not put the burden on rights holders. “Well-established copyright law safeguards the rights of creators and applies here.” Others have flagged the app’s potential to be used maliciously, including by users who might create videos to mock or bully others. “It has no fidelity to history, it has no relationship to the truth,” a misinformation expert told The Guardian. “When cruel people get their hands on tools like this, they will use them for hate, harassment and incitement.” OpenAI did not immediately respond to Fast Company’s request for comment. View the full article

At the recent TechXchange 2025 conference in Orlando, IBM unveiled exciting advancements aimed at transforming how businesses integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations. These innovations promise greater productivity, streamlined workflows, and enhanced governance, particularly for small business owners looking to harness the power of AI without the complexity often associated with implementation. IBM’s Senior Vice President of Products, Dinesh Nirmal, emphasized the changing landscape, stating, “AI productivity is the new speed of business. These features will help clients remove bottlenecks across their entire technology lifecycle.” This shift offers potential for substantial economic gains, but it also highlights several obstacles that many organizations face—fragmented hybrid environments, data quality issues, and AI readiness. For small business owners, these challenges can seem daunting. However, IBM’s emphasis on production-ready products aims to simplify the adoption process. One of the key tools featured is watsonx Orchestrate, which enables businesses to deploy AI agents efficiently while providing necessary governance and transparency. The platform comes with over 500 customizable tools and agents, making it adaptable for various industries and all skill levels. Consider how an HR agent could streamline onboarding without the chaos of disorganized operations. Without tools like the AgentOps feature, an HR agent would be limited in its effectiveness due to a lack of monitoring. However, with real-time oversight provided by AgentOps, businesses can track actions and make adjustments on the fly, vastly improving the onboarding experience. Moreover, the integration of Agentic workflows allows small businesses to create consistent, reusable flows that help developers and non-technical staff orchestrate multiple agents and tools. This reduces the reliance on fragile scripts, which can fail under pressure, ensuring smoother operations even as businesses grow. IBM is also addressing another critical aspect: hybrid cloud environments, which are essential for many small businesses looking to blend local and cloud resources. The Project infragraph, a result of IBM’s acquisition of HashiCorp, aims to eliminate silos created by disparate tools. This unified control plane allows organizations to view their entire infrastructure and security posture without manual interventions. A live, comprehensive overview means that small business owners can react quickly to vulnerabilities and manage their systems more efficiently. The implementation of Project Bob, an AI-first integrated development environment (IDE), introduces a new level of ease for software development. With its advanced task generation capabilities, small business owners can expect faster software updates and a more streamlined development lifecycle. Rather than working with traditional coding assistants, developers can leverage Project Bob to modernize applications, automate system upgrades, and embed security within workflows. Nonetheless, navigating this new technology landscape isn’t without its challenges. Small business owners must consider the investment needed for these tools and whether their operations are ready for such integration. There could be a steep learning curve for teams unaccustomed to AI, necessitating training or hiring strategically to bridge any skill gaps. IBM’s focus on partnership, particularly its collaboration with Anthropic, also underscores the necessity of flexibility in AI applications. As businesses increasingly seek tailored solutions, having the ability to select from various tools and technologies—not being locked into a single vendor—is vital. This flexibility aligns with small business goals while ensuring that they can transition to AI in a way that fits their specific needs. In summary, IBM’s latest innovations present promising tools for small business owners, providing ways to drive productivity and efficiency. By embracing these technologies, businesses can not only keep pace with the rapidly evolving landscape but also strategically position themselves for future growth. For further details on these announcements and the various products mentioned, visit the IBM newsroom here. Image via Envato This article, "IBM Launches New AI Tools to Streamline Enterprise Operations and Development" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

At the recent TechXchange 2025 conference in Orlando, IBM unveiled exciting advancements aimed at transforming how businesses integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations. These innovations promise greater productivity, streamlined workflows, and enhanced governance, particularly for small business owners looking to harness the power of AI without the complexity often associated with implementation. IBM’s Senior Vice President of Products, Dinesh Nirmal, emphasized the changing landscape, stating, “AI productivity is the new speed of business. These features will help clients remove bottlenecks across their entire technology lifecycle.” This shift offers potential for substantial economic gains, but it also highlights several obstacles that many organizations face—fragmented hybrid environments, data quality issues, and AI readiness. For small business owners, these challenges can seem daunting. However, IBM’s emphasis on production-ready products aims to simplify the adoption process. One of the key tools featured is watsonx Orchestrate, which enables businesses to deploy AI agents efficiently while providing necessary governance and transparency. The platform comes with over 500 customizable tools and agents, making it adaptable for various industries and all skill levels. Consider how an HR agent could streamline onboarding without the chaos of disorganized operations. Without tools like the AgentOps feature, an HR agent would be limited in its effectiveness due to a lack of monitoring. However, with real-time oversight provided by AgentOps, businesses can track actions and make adjustments on the fly, vastly improving the onboarding experience. Moreover, the integration of Agentic workflows allows small businesses to create consistent, reusable flows that help developers and non-technical staff orchestrate multiple agents and tools. This reduces the reliance on fragile scripts, which can fail under pressure, ensuring smoother operations even as businesses grow. IBM is also addressing another critical aspect: hybrid cloud environments, which are essential for many small businesses looking to blend local and cloud resources. The Project infragraph, a result of IBM’s acquisition of HashiCorp, aims to eliminate silos created by disparate tools. This unified control plane allows organizations to view their entire infrastructure and security posture without manual interventions. A live, comprehensive overview means that small business owners can react quickly to vulnerabilities and manage their systems more efficiently. The implementation of Project Bob, an AI-first integrated development environment (IDE), introduces a new level of ease for software development. With its advanced task generation capabilities, small business owners can expect faster software updates and a more streamlined development lifecycle. Rather than working with traditional coding assistants, developers can leverage Project Bob to modernize applications, automate system upgrades, and embed security within workflows. Nonetheless, navigating this new technology landscape isn’t without its challenges. Small business owners must consider the investment needed for these tools and whether their operations are ready for such integration. There could be a steep learning curve for teams unaccustomed to AI, necessitating training or hiring strategically to bridge any skill gaps. IBM’s focus on partnership, particularly its collaboration with Anthropic, also underscores the necessity of flexibility in AI applications. As businesses increasingly seek tailored solutions, having the ability to select from various tools and technologies—not being locked into a single vendor—is vital. This flexibility aligns with small business goals while ensuring that they can transition to AI in a way that fits their specific needs. In summary, IBM’s latest innovations present promising tools for small business owners, providing ways to drive productivity and efficiency. By embracing these technologies, businesses can not only keep pace with the rapidly evolving landscape but also strategically position themselves for future growth. For further details on these announcements and the various products mentioned, visit the IBM newsroom here. Image via Envato This article, "IBM Launches New AI Tools to Streamline Enterprise Operations and Development" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

YouTube is giving some creators previously banned for spreading misinformation a chance to get back on the platform. The company opened up a pilot program on Thursday inviting YouTubers who were kicked off of the video sharing site under now-outdated rules to apply for a new channel. The company announced the second chance process last month, describing it as a “limited pilot project” for some creators, including those with channels banned under policies the platform has since abandoned. YouTube’s announcement came the same day that the company issued a conciliatory letter to Republican Rep. Jim Jordan, who has pressured YouTube and other social media companies for years over unfounded claims that they deliberately censor conservative viewpoints. We've had a lot of questions about a pathway back to YouTube for some terminated creators to set up a new channel. This will be a limited pilot project that will be available to a subset of creators in addition to those channels terminated for policies that have been deprecated.… — Updates From YouTube (@UpdatesFromYT) September 23, 2025 YouTube’s changing rules Not all creators given the boot will be eligible for a second chance. YouTube notes that some types of channel terminations will stand, including bans for copyright infringement and for violations of its policies against abuse and violence off-platform. Channels eligible to be reinstated will see an option to request a fresh channel on YouTube Studio over the next few weeks, according to the company. “We’re looking forward to providing an opportunity for creators to start fresh and bring their voice back to the platform,” the company wrote in a blog post. “As always, our Community Guidelines and other policies still apply to help us maintain a responsible business that viewers, creators, and advertisers rely on.” If approved, creators previously banned from YouTube will be allowed to create a new channel from scratch – not resurrect the channel that earned them the ban. While YouTube describes the program as a “fresh start,” creators will be allowed to re-upload old videos that don’t violate the platform’s policies in 2025. Once a new channel becomes eligible, previously banned creators won’t face any restrictions on monetization. The pilot program applies to channels that have been offline for at least a year. For channels banned more recently, YouTube points creators to its existing appeals process. Creators that successfully appeal a ban can have their channels reinstated rather than going through the new pilot program. For social media companies, policies follow politics YouTube, like other social networks, has dismantled some content moderation policies in recent years. After building out a framework to limit the spread of misinformation during the Biden era, including rules punishing channels for election denialism after Jan. 6, YouTube is now backing away from many of those policies. The company said that it opted to sunset election misinformation rules to allow for discussion of “possible widespread fraud, errors, or glitches occurring in the 2020 and other past U.S. presidential elections.” Since 2023, YouTube has also rolled back rules specific to Covid-19 and vaccine-related misinformation, a fact the company highlights in the letter sent last month to Jordan. “YouTube continues to enable a diversity of perspectives and believes creators should be able to openly debate political ideas on the platform,” the company wrote in the letter. The community guidelines “allow for a wider range of content” on those topics now, according to YouTube. “YouTube values conservative voices on its platform and recognized that these creators have extensive reach and play an important role in civic discourse,” YouTube wrote in the letter. “The Company recognizes that these creators are among those shaping today’s online consumption, landing “must-watch” interviews, giving viewers the chance to hear directly from politicians, celebrities, business leaders, and more.” Regulatory threats set the tone The decision to invite once-banned creators back comes as YouTube seeks to put itself in the good graces of President The President and likeminded Republicans in Congress. In his second term, the The President administration has been eager to reward loyalists and punish its perceived political enemies. The President has already wielded threats from the FCC against broadcast networks airing critical content, but other agencies like the DOJ and FTC could also be aimed at the administration’s critics. Just last week, YouTube agreed to pay $24.5 million to settle a lawsuit The President filed in 2021 after breaking its rules against inciting violence during the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Meta and X, formerly Twitter, also paid $25 million and $10 million respectively to settle parallel lawsuits from The President after the former president again took office. None of the cases were regarded as particularly credible by legal experts, nor was another lawsuit against Paramount, which the company opted to settle in July for $16 million, paving the way for FCC approval of its lucrative merger. View the full article

The trade war between the U.S. and China is heating up: On Friday, U.S. President Donald The President lashed out at Beijing after China said it would tighten control over rare earth mineral exports, with the president saying he would impose a new 100% duty on Chinese goods—”over and above” existing tariffs. The reignited trade war has rocked markets, particularly tech stocks, with the Nasdaq closing 3.6% down on Friday. Analysts are warning that the escalation could lead to an even more economically turbulent market outlook than was seen earlier this year after The President made his “Liberation Day” tariff announcement. The President made the threat on social media, writing that he would impose the new 100% tariff on Chinese goods by Nov. 1.,. The President also said that the U.S. would limit exports of “any and all critical software.” “It is impossible to believe that China would have taken such an action, but they have, and the rest is History,” The President wrote. Earlier on Friday, The President indicated he might cancel an anticipated meeting with China’s leader, Xi Jinping. “One of the Policies that we are calculating at this moment is a massive increase of Tariffs on Chinese products coming into the United States of America,” he said on Friday in a post. “There are many other countermeasures that are, likewise, under serious consideration.” Why is the trade war escalating again now? Washington’s latest tit-for-tat comes after China announced new trade curbs on rare earth minerals—the country controls the vast majority of these materials, which are vital for technology manufacturing, as well as for making magnets, batteries, and vehicles. The President said that China’s move would “clog” the markets, and that Beijing was holding the world “captive.” Analysts have echoed the president’s concerns, with many cautioning that China’s new regulations will have major impacts for the U.S.’s ability to access materials necessary for technology manufacturing and even military equipment. “These restrictions undermine our ability to develop our industrial base at a time when we need to. And then second, it’s a powerful negotiating tool,” a critical minerals analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies said, per NPR. Tariff threats roil markets, and analysts are worried U.S. markets responded quickly to the new tariff threats. On Friday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 876 points, while the S&P 500 fell 2.7%, and the Nasdaq composite closed 3.6% down. Tech stocks in particular took a hard hit: chipmaker Nvidia, Amazon, and EV-manufacturer Tesla fell by around 5%. And while the global economy has shown remarkable resilience so far in the face of trade upheaval and The President’s tariffs, analysts believe this period of turbulence is far from over. “This is all a game of high stakes poker going on between the US and China in this AI Revolution as we are also seeing more scrutiny in Beijing around Nvidia’s golden chips,” Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives said in a research note to clients. Ives added, “These moments we view as buying opportunities to own the winners in semis, software, Big Tech, and the AI future as in our view these tensions will not bubble up into a much more tense time vs. the nervous period of time we saw in April.” View the full article

There’s a chill in the air—and not just from the weather. A newly arrived La Niña pattern is setting the stage for a potentially wild winter, with experts predicting snow-packed northern states, a drier South, and maybe even more late-season hurricanes. Meanwhile, markets caught their own cold snap after fresh U.S.–China trade tensions sparked a global sell-off. Still, not all the week’s headlines were gloomy. Uniqlo is going on a U.S. growth spree with 11 new stores planned for next year. But other industries are feeling the squeeze—from whiskey makers battling tariffs and falling demand, to airlines struggling through a government shutdown that’s leaving thousands of flights delayed. Throw in a nationwide Listeria pasta recall, a soda study that might make you rethink your next Diet Coke, and the threat of delayed Social Security payments—and it’s safe to say this week had something for everyone. Here’s a look at what made headlines: La Niña Is Back—and Winter Might Get Weird The National Weather Service says La Niña officially kicked in last month, bringing cooler Pacific waters that tend to shake up global weather patterns. Expect snowier-than-normal conditions across the northern U.S. and drier, warmer weather down South. It could also mean more hurricane activity into late fall, even though experts are calling this a “weak” La Niña. Uniqlo Bets Big on Brick-and-Mortar The Japanese clothing brand known for minimalist staples is going on a U.S. expansion tear. Uniqlo will open 11 new stores next year, including four in New York City and new flagships in Chicago and San Francisco. The move bucks the trend of retailers downsizing as shoppers cut back—proof that Fast Retailing, Uniqlo’s parent company, sees plenty of life left in American retail. Markets Tank After The President’s Tariff Threats Stocks took a nosedive this week after President The President reignited his trade feud with China, threatening a “massive increase” in tariffs. Beijing’s new export controls on rare earth minerals hit tech and defense sectors hard—but ironically sent U.S. rare-earth companies like MP Materials and USA Rare Earth soaring before they cooled off. Crypto investors didn’t fare as well, with nearly $125 billion wiped out in a single day. Whiskey Country Feels the Burn America’s whiskey makers are facing a hangover that’s about a lot more than tariffs. Spirits exports fell 9% in the second quarter according to the Distilled Spirits Council, and domestic drinking is down to its lowest level in decades. Distilleries in Kentucky and Tennessee are cutting jobs or closing doors, while smaller producers struggle to stay solvent. Your Daily Soda Habit Could Be Hurting Your Liver A new European study suggests that even one can of soda a day—regular or diet—could raise your risk of liver disease by up to 60%. Both sugary and artificially sweetened drinks were linked to fat buildup in the liver and other metabolic issues. Researchers say the safest bet is to skip the fizz and stick with water, no matter how tempting that afternoon “fridge cigarette” sounds. Flight Delays Pile Up During Shutdown If you’re flying anytime soon, brace yourself. More than 16,000 flights have been delayed this week as the government shutdown drags on. Air traffic controllers and TSA agents are working unpaid, and airports from Chicago to D.C. are feeling the pinch. With a long weekend ahead, experts say to double-check your flight before leaving for the airport—and maybe pack some patience. Kroger Joins the Pasta Recall Parade Kroger is pulling two pasta salads—Basil Pesto Bowtie and Smoked Mozzarella Penne—from shelves after possible Listeria contamination. The recall affects stores in more than two dozen states and follows similar moves by Walmart, Trader Joe’s, and Albertsons. At least 19 people have been hospitalized and four have died in a multi-state outbreak linked to ready-to-eat pasta meals. Social Security COLA Bump Could Be Delayed Yes, Social Security checks are still going out—but next year’s cost-of-living increase may be stuck in limbo. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, which calculates the inflation data needed for the 2026 adjustment, is mostly furloughed during the shutdown. Without those numbers, the SSA can’t finalize the expected 2.7% boost in monthly benefits, leaving retirees waiting for answers. View the full article

A recent op ed in a major and official Chinese telecoms publication could indicate a change in sentiment. The post Speculation: Is China softening its stance on Wi-Fi in the 6 GHz band? appeared first on Wi-Fi NOW Global. View the full article

California’s recent signing of SB 371 signals a significant change for rideshare services, promising to make them more affordable while maintaining essential protections for drivers and riders alike. For small business owners, particularly those relying on transportation or delivery services, these reforms could reshape operational costs and customer pricing structures. At the heart of SB 371 is the effort to address one of the most pressing issues in the rideshare industry—soaring insurance costs. Passengers in California have been bearing some of the highest fares nationwide, with approximately one-third of every fare allocated to government-mandated insurance. In densely populated areas like Los Angeles, this figure climbs to nearly half. The driving force behind these costs was an outdated requirement for a $1 million Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) policy, exclusive to rideshare drivers, unlike taxis or personal vehicles. “Curbing these excessive insurance requirements is a game-changer. They artificially inflate fares for customers and limit earning potential for drivers,” said an Uber spokesperson. This regulation has not only increased costs but also facilitated a culture where minor accidents escalate into costly lawsuits, further burdening both riders and drivers. Starting January 1, 2026, the new UM/UIM coverage will be adjusted to $60,000 per individual and $300,000 per accident, aligning more closely with other vehicles on California roads. Along with maintaining a $1 million liability insurance for incidents caused by rideshare operators, the reforms guarantee occupational accident coverage to assist drivers with medical bills, a critical safeguard considering many drivers operate as independent contractors. Moreover, small business owners who use rideshare services for logistics can anticipate reduced costs. “With lower insurance overhead, rideshare companies can pass savings directly to consumers and businesses,” the spokesperson noted. This change could lead to more competitive pricing, benefiting companies relying on rideshare services for deliveries or transportation. Another notable development is the introduction of AB 1340, which empowers rideshare drivers to organize for improved pay and benefits without sacrificing their independence. This law allows for sectoral bargaining, which can lead to better terms for drivers while still honoring the flexibility guaranteed by existing legislation, notably Prop 22. But understanding the broader implications of these changes is crucial for small business owners. A rise in the availability of affordable rideshare services will likely stimulate increased consumer spending, as people may feel more comfortable using these services if they are cheaper. Additionally, small businesses could explore partnerships or sponsorships with rideshare companies to attract customers. For small businesses dependent on the gig economy, however, there are potential challenges. Rideshare drivers now have the option to join organizations that advocate for their interests, which could result in collective bargaining for better pay—an aspect that could influence operational costs and pricing models for those who engage such services. Furthermore, while the reforms aim to lower costs and improve driver welfare, the actual implementation and response from the rideshare market will be a critical area to watch. Changes in regulation may spark a shift in how drivers approach work, leading to a possible increase in competition for rideshare gigs. Small businesses should stay informed about these dynamics, as they could impact both the availability of services and operational models. Ultimately, SB 371 and AB 1340 illustrate how collaboration among lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and labor organizations can lead to meaningful change. By making rideshare services more affordable and adjusting the legal landscape for drivers, California is setting a precedent that could influence other states looking for similar reforms. As always, keeping a pulse on these developments can empower small businesses to strategize and adapt effectively in an evolving marketplace. For more detailed information, you can read the original press release here. Image via Envato This article, "California Passes SB 371 to Cut Rideshare Insurance Costs, Benefit Drivers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

California’s recent signing of SB 371 signals a significant change for rideshare services, promising to make them more affordable while maintaining essential protections for drivers and riders alike. For small business owners, particularly those relying on transportation or delivery services, these reforms could reshape operational costs and customer pricing structures. At the heart of SB 371 is the effort to address one of the most pressing issues in the rideshare industry—soaring insurance costs. Passengers in California have been bearing some of the highest fares nationwide, with approximately one-third of every fare allocated to government-mandated insurance. In densely populated areas like Los Angeles, this figure climbs to nearly half. The driving force behind these costs was an outdated requirement for a $1 million Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) policy, exclusive to rideshare drivers, unlike taxis or personal vehicles. “Curbing these excessive insurance requirements is a game-changer. They artificially inflate fares for customers and limit earning potential for drivers,” said an Uber spokesperson. This regulation has not only increased costs but also facilitated a culture where minor accidents escalate into costly lawsuits, further burdening both riders and drivers. Starting January 1, 2026, the new UM/UIM coverage will be adjusted to $60,000 per individual and $300,000 per accident, aligning more closely with other vehicles on California roads. Along with maintaining a $1 million liability insurance for incidents caused by rideshare operators, the reforms guarantee occupational accident coverage to assist drivers with medical bills, a critical safeguard considering many drivers operate as independent contractors. Moreover, small business owners who use rideshare services for logistics can anticipate reduced costs. “With lower insurance overhead, rideshare companies can pass savings directly to consumers and businesses,” the spokesperson noted. This change could lead to more competitive pricing, benefiting companies relying on rideshare services for deliveries or transportation. Another notable development is the introduction of AB 1340, which empowers rideshare drivers to organize for improved pay and benefits without sacrificing their independence. This law allows for sectoral bargaining, which can lead to better terms for drivers while still honoring the flexibility guaranteed by existing legislation, notably Prop 22. But understanding the broader implications of these changes is crucial for small business owners. A rise in the availability of affordable rideshare services will likely stimulate increased consumer spending, as people may feel more comfortable using these services if they are cheaper. Additionally, small businesses could explore partnerships or sponsorships with rideshare companies to attract customers. For small businesses dependent on the gig economy, however, there are potential challenges. Rideshare drivers now have the option to join organizations that advocate for their interests, which could result in collective bargaining for better pay—an aspect that could influence operational costs and pricing models for those who engage such services. Furthermore, while the reforms aim to lower costs and improve driver welfare, the actual implementation and response from the rideshare market will be a critical area to watch. Changes in regulation may spark a shift in how drivers approach work, leading to a possible increase in competition for rideshare gigs. Small businesses should stay informed about these dynamics, as they could impact both the availability of services and operational models. Ultimately, SB 371 and AB 1340 illustrate how collaboration among lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and labor organizations can lead to meaningful change. By making rideshare services more affordable and adjusting the legal landscape for drivers, California is setting a precedent that could influence other states looking for similar reforms. As always, keeping a pulse on these developments can empower small businesses to strategize and adapt effectively in an evolving marketplace. For more detailed information, you can read the original press release here. Image via Envato This article, "California Passes SB 371 to Cut Rideshare Insurance Costs, Benefit Drivers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Is the next big opportunity across the street...or right where you already are? Accounting Influencers With Rob Brown Go PRO for members-only access to more Rob Brown. View the full article

Is the next big opportunity across the street...or right where you already are? Accounting Influencers With Rob Brown Go PRO for members-only access to more Rob Brown. View the full article

High interest rates and fear of economic shocks spur households to build up savings rather than splash outView the full article

Google’s latest advancement in AI, Gemini, promises to transform how small business owners manage daily tasks with a more intuitive, conversational approach. Launched recently, Gemini brings significant improvements to voice-activated assistance, making it an invaluable tool for business owners juggling multiple responsibilities. Gone are the days of clunky interactions with digital assistants. With Gemini, users can engage in fluid conversations without needing to repeat themselves. For instance, if a business owner encounters an issue with their dishwasher, they can start with a simple query, “Hey Google, my dishwasher isn’t draining, what should I check first?” and follow up with related questions seamlessly. This capability can save time and reduce frustrations, particularly in high-pressure environments. The technology behind Gemini offers notable enhancements across three essential areas that small business owners frequently engage with: media, household coordination, and smart home control. This leap in understanding is not merely a convenience; it also streamlines everyday tasks, letting business owners focus their energies elsewhere. In terms of media, Gemini allows users to search in a more human-like manner. Instead of needing specific titles or artist names, you can provide descriptions akin to how you’d explain it to a colleague. For example, a business owner can say, “Hey Google, play the song from the movie where a bunch of oil workers fly to space to blow up an asteroid,” making it easier to retrieve relevant audio or podcasts quickly. This feature is particularly useful for business owners looking to stay updated with industry-related content without the hassle of remembering exact titles or formats. Smart home integration is another area where Gemini shines. Imagine a small restaurant owner who is in the middle of cooking and needs to adjust lighting in the kitchen. Simply saying, “Hey Google, I’m about to cook, can you turn on the lights by the stove?” will trigger the precise response—no additional clarifications needed. The system now accommodates complex requests, like, “turn off all the lights, except for the office lights,” which can be particularly beneficial in managing ambiance and utility usage. Household coordination has evolved as well. Gemini takes the role of a proactive partner, offering a significant upgrade in managing calendars, lists, timers, and reminders. A typical business owner might have myriad tasks to track—like a grocery list for office snacks or reminders for upcoming meetings. Instead of laboriously adding items, now a simple command such as “Hey Google, add ingredients for Pad Thai to my shopping list,” suffices. Gemini automatically understands the intent behind the request, even asking for clarifications when necessary, streamlining the entire process. For those who thrive on collaboration and idea-sharing, the new feature “Gemini Live” allows users to engage in free-flowing conversations. The absence of a rigid activation prompt encourages dynamic discussions. For example, a small business owner could outline available ingredients and ask, “I have spinach, eggs, feta, and some bread… what can I make?” and seamlessly refine the request to suit dietary requirements or preferences. This reflects a more organic interaction—mirroring how people converse in real life—ultimately saving time and fostering creativity. While Gemini offers numerous benefits, small business owners may want to consider potential challenges associated with adopting this new AI tool. There could be a learning curve in adapting to new features, and businesses may need to ensure they’re equipped with the right hardware to fully leverage Gemini’s capabilities. Moreover, continued advancements in technology may warrant regular updates or training to keep staff compliant and familiar with these changes. For those looking to harness the power of Google Gemini, it’s crucial to keep an open mind. The possibilities are expansive—from better time management to improved task execution. Efforts such as these can not only uplift operational efficiency but also enhance the work-life balance for small business owners juggling multiple responsibilities. For more detailed information, please visit the original post on Google’s blog here. Image via Google This article, "Google Gemini Revolutionizes Conversations with Intuitive Contextual Understanding" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google’s latest advancement in AI, Gemini, promises to transform how small business owners manage daily tasks with a more intuitive, conversational approach. Launched recently, Gemini brings significant improvements to voice-activated assistance, making it an invaluable tool for business owners juggling multiple responsibilities. Gone are the days of clunky interactions with digital assistants. With Gemini, users can engage in fluid conversations without needing to repeat themselves. For instance, if a business owner encounters an issue with their dishwasher, they can start with a simple query, “Hey Google, my dishwasher isn’t draining, what should I check first?” and follow up with related questions seamlessly. This capability can save time and reduce frustrations, particularly in high-pressure environments. The technology behind Gemini offers notable enhancements across three essential areas that small business owners frequently engage with: media, household coordination, and smart home control. This leap in understanding is not merely a convenience; it also streamlines everyday tasks, letting business owners focus their energies elsewhere. In terms of media, Gemini allows users to search in a more human-like manner. Instead of needing specific titles or artist names, you can provide descriptions akin to how you’d explain it to a colleague. For example, a business owner can say, “Hey Google, play the song from the movie where a bunch of oil workers fly to space to blow up an asteroid,” making it easier to retrieve relevant audio or podcasts quickly. This feature is particularly useful for business owners looking to stay updated with industry-related content without the hassle of remembering exact titles or formats. Smart home integration is another area where Gemini shines. Imagine a small restaurant owner who is in the middle of cooking and needs to adjust lighting in the kitchen. Simply saying, “Hey Google, I’m about to cook, can you turn on the lights by the stove?” will trigger the precise response—no additional clarifications needed. The system now accommodates complex requests, like, “turn off all the lights, except for the office lights,” which can be particularly beneficial in managing ambiance and utility usage. Household coordination has evolved as well. Gemini takes the role of a proactive partner, offering a significant upgrade in managing calendars, lists, timers, and reminders. A typical business owner might have myriad tasks to track—like a grocery list for office snacks or reminders for upcoming meetings. Instead of laboriously adding items, now a simple command such as “Hey Google, add ingredients for Pad Thai to my shopping list,” suffices. Gemini automatically understands the intent behind the request, even asking for clarifications when necessary, streamlining the entire process. For those who thrive on collaboration and idea-sharing, the new feature “Gemini Live” allows users to engage in free-flowing conversations. The absence of a rigid activation prompt encourages dynamic discussions. For example, a small business owner could outline available ingredients and ask, “I have spinach, eggs, feta, and some bread… what can I make?” and seamlessly refine the request to suit dietary requirements or preferences. This reflects a more organic interaction—mirroring how people converse in real life—ultimately saving time and fostering creativity. While Gemini offers numerous benefits, small business owners may want to consider potential challenges associated with adopting this new AI tool. There could be a learning curve in adapting to new features, and businesses may need to ensure they’re equipped with the right hardware to fully leverage Gemini’s capabilities. Moreover, continued advancements in technology may warrant regular updates or training to keep staff compliant and familiar with these changes. For those looking to harness the power of Google Gemini, it’s crucial to keep an open mind. The possibilities are expansive—from better time management to improved task execution. Efforts such as these can not only uplift operational efficiency but also enhance the work-life balance for small business owners juggling multiple responsibilities. For more detailed information, please visit the original post on Google’s blog here. Image via Google This article, "Google Gemini Revolutionizes Conversations with Intuitive Contextual Understanding" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’ve ever been startled while watching a show on a streaming service that was interrupted by an unreasonably loud commercial and thought to yourself, that should be illegal, soon it will be. At least in California. California Gov. Gavin Newsom this week signed a bipartisan bill into law that bans video streaming services that serve customers in the state from airing audio of commercial advertisements that are louder than the video content it accompanies. It goes into effect July 1, 2026. “We heard Californians loud and clear, and what’s clear is that they don’t want commercials at a volume any louder than the level at which they were previously enjoying a program,” Newsom said in a statement about the legislation, SB 576. The bill was introduced because of a baby. California state Sen. Thomas Umberg, an Orange County Democrat, said he sponsored the bill because of the daughter of his legislative director, a baby named Samantha who was finally put to bed one night only to be woken up by a much louder commercial. “This bill was inspired by baby Samantha and every exhausted parent who’s finally gotten a baby to sleep, only to have a blaring streaming ad undo all that hard work,” Umberg said in a statement. The California law is patterned after federal law, extending the rules of the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Act to streamers in the state. The 2010 CALM Act was passed by Congress and mandates commercials have the same average volume as the programs they accompany, according to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The CALM Act was also meeting a real demand. A 2010 Harris poll found 86% of respondents believed commercials were louder than shows. The law only applies to TV commercials, though, not commercials on streaming platforms, radio, or internet. The CALM Modernization Act, which would have extended the rules to streamers, was introduced in 2023 by a pair of Senate Democrats, Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island and Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, but it never got a vote. Even if your state passes similar legislation, be warned: the commercials may still sound louder, and there’s a reason why. That’s because even if commercials can’t be louder on average than the programs they accompany, they are trying to be as loud as they legally can to capture your attention in the 30 short seconds or less they have you. In other words, while a TV show might have its loud moments for effect here and there throughout a program, it’s not yelling at you the whole time like a commercial might. “Most TV commercials are created to be loud simply so you can hear the advertisement and get your attention,” Sony says on a support page for handling loud commercials. “[I]f you are watching a program with soft dialog, when the program cuts to a commercial you will most likely hear a boost or fluctuation in the volume.” California’s new law will be welcome news to parents across the Golden State, but if you’re really worried about waking your baby during commercial breaks in a Hulu binge session, subtitles could be your best bet. View the full article

When the federal government shutdown on October 1, it started a chain reaction of income problems for federal workers. Roughly 900,000 government employees are now on furlough. Another 700,000 are working without pay because their jobs are too critical for them to stay home. To add insult to entirely preventable injury, the current administration has indicated that it may not provide the legally mandated back pay to these workers once the shutdown is over. Considering the fact that getting another job during the furlough may require the government employee’s agency approval (and wouldn’t help critical employees working without a paycheck), the shutdown could be a personal financial disaster for hundreds of thousands of Americans. Only 1.8% of all American workers have Uncle Sam for a boss—but that doesn’t mean the other 98.2% of us are exempt from furloughs, sudden income loss, or bizarre grandstanding from unrelated departments that lead to you coming in to work for no pay for weeks on end. (Well, maybe not that last one.) That’s why it’s so important for all workers to know these financial strategies that can help you safely get to the other side of income loss: Calculate your bare minimum budget If you haven’t done so before your income loss, sit down and figure out your baseline monthly expenses. These are the expenditures that are essential for maintaining your life, such as rent or mortgage payment, utility bills, groceries, transportation, and childcare. Generally, this is a relatively easy number to calculate. Start with your fixed expenses, like your rent and childcare, and estimate your fluctuating expenses like groceries and utility bills, by calculating the average cost over the past six to 12 months. The number you come up with is your bare minimum monthly budget, and it gives you a framework for figuring out how to live sustainably while your income is paused. Contact your creditors If you are carrying credit card debt, student loans, or other debts, contact your creditors to find out if there are ways to pause payments or reduce your monthly payment requirements during the period of income loss. While this will generally increase the amount you owe over time, it can give you the breathing room you need in the moment, and reduce your bare-minimum monthly budget number. Determine if you’re eligible for unemployment Furloughed government employees (as well as furloughed private sector workers) may be eligible for unemployment benefits, depending on local and state regulations. Unemployment benefits are generally based on your past earning history and most benefits are limited to 26 weeks. Each state has a minimum and maximum weekly benefit amount for unemployment benefits. For example, in Wisconsin, the minimum weekly unemployment benefit a Cheesehead could receive is $54 and the maximum is $370. These amounts vary greatly from state to state, with Massachusetts boasting the highest weekly maximum at $1,033 and Puerto Rico having the lowest maximum benefit at $190 per week. Unemployment benefits are not available for all types of income loss. Going on strike, having to work without pay (as current excepted government workers are doing), or getting fired for cause would make you ineligible for unemployment benefits. But if you can collect unemployment, these benefits can help keep you afloat until your income resumes. Compare your savings (or unemployment benefits) to your needs Assuming you have savings set aside, you can compare it to your monthly minimum number to determine how many months you can afford to go without your income. In an ideal world, you will have an emergency fund equal to three- to six-months’ worth of living expenses. That should help you feel more confident about your income loss, since you know you can weather quite a long period without it. Unfortunately, only 46% of Americans have enough savings set aside to cover three months’ worth of expenses according to a 2025 Bankrate report. If you don’t have a robust savings account (or any at all), and you’re eligible for unemployment benefits, you can alternatively make the same type of comparison between your monthly minimum number and your potential unemployment checks. Figure out alternative income sources Depending on which agency they work for—and if they’re still clocking into a job they’re not getting paid for—federal employees may not be able to take on alternative employment while waiting out the shutdown. But that doesn’t mean they’re out of luck for finding other sources of income. For example, a furloughed employee might make a list of things they’re willing to sell and create a schedule for selling them. Having a schedule gives them more time to get the best prices for those items and also provide a sense of security about where next month’s money will come from because there’s a plan in place. Other options include renting out a room in your house or selling your services as a freelancer. Any options for keeping some money coming in while waiting for your primary income to resume can help relieve your financial stress during the shutdown. Don’t let the shutdown keep you down Losing your income through no fault of your own feels infuriating and demoralizing, especially if you have no idea when to expect its return. But calculating the minimum you need to maintain your lifestyle can help you feel more in control. From there, you can ask for some breathing room from your creditors and determine if you’re eligible for unemployment. Then look at how long your savings and unemployment benefits can sustain you. To make sure the process can last as long as the current political temper tantrum, make a plan for alternative sources of income that you can implement as needed. All this together creates a blueprint for surviving and thriving through income loss, even if it stretches on for a long time. View the full article

Want more housing market stories from Lance Lambert’s ResiClub in your inbox? Subscribe to the ResiClub newsletter. Most of America’s largest homebuilders have publicly stated that the peak 2025 housing market saw softer-than-expected conditions, particularly in many parts of the Sun Belt. This softer housing market environment caused unsold inventory to tick up. Indeed, since the pandemic housing boom fizzled out, the number of unsold completed U.S. new single-family homes has been rising: August 2016 —> 61,000 August 2017 —> 63,000 August 2018 —> 69,000 August 2019 —> 79,000 August 2020 —> 52,000 August 2021 —> 34,000 August 2022 —> 45,000 August 2023 —> 72,000 August 2024 —> 105,000 August 2025 —> 124,000 The August figure (124,000 unsold completed new homes) published last week is the highest level since July 2009 (126,000). Let’s take a closer look at the data to better understand what this could mean. To put the number of unsold completed new single-family homes into historic context, we have ResiClub’s Finished Homes Supply Index. The index is one simple calculation: the number of unsold completed U.S. new single-family homes divided by the annualized rate of U.S. single-family housing starts. A higher index score indicates a softer national new-construction market with greater supply slack, while a lower index score signifies a tighter new-construction market with less supply slack. If you look at unsold completed single-family new builds as a share of single-family housing starts (see chart below), it still shows we’ve gained slack (and have more now than in pre-pandemic 2019); however, this slack, nationally speaking, isn’t anything close to the 2007-2008 weakening. While the U.S. Census Bureau doesn’t give us a great market-by-market breakdown on these unsold new builds, we have a good idea where they are, based on total active inventory homes for sale (including existing). Much of it is likely in the Mountain West and Sun Belt, particularly around the Gulf area. Indeed, some builders are experiencing pricing pressure, particularly in pockets of Florida and Texas, where resale inventory is well above pre-pandemic 2019 levels. See the screenshot from the ResiClub Terminal below. To offer larger incentives and move some of these homes, many major homebuilders in the Sun Belt are compressing their margins. While homebuilder margins have compressed from the highs of the pandemic housing boom, some look alright compared with pre-pandemic 2019 levels. However, if resale inventory and unsold completed new-build inventory continue to rise next year—and further margin compression becomes necessary—we could reach a point where both single-family permit activity and housing starts activity pull back more. We’ll keep a close eye on it. Big picture: There’s greater slack in the new construction market now than a few years ago, giving buyers and investors some leverage in certain markets to negotiate better deals with homebuilders. View the full article

Emmanuel Macron’s movement and legacy unravel as political gambles backfireView the full article